Understanding what to expect during your first dental visit will help you have a more comfortable experience. Rocky Ridge Dental offers comprehensive, reliable dental solutions for our patients. Here is what to expect during your first visit to a dentist:
Reviewing Your Dental History
During your first appointment, the office will have you discuss or complete paperwork about your dental history. Elaborate on past conditions or any current medications you are taking. If you are experiencing oral discomfort, identify these areas so the office can evaluate the surrounding teeth and gums.
Completing an Examination
An examination involves taking X-rays so the dentist can see any cavities, infections, or bone loss. The X-rays also show any old restorations like fillings and crowns. A dentist will complete a physical examination by looking inside your mouth for signs of diseases or oral cancer. An exam also allows them to see if you grind your teeth, wearing down the enamel. A full oral health evaluation helps dentists create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Our team will discuss the results of your evaluation and recommend the appropriate treatment steps.
Providing the Necessary Treatment
If you only requested an examination appointment, you can schedule follow-up visits with our office for further treatments. We will set up an appointment for a filling, restoration, whitening, or other service. For individuals who also scheduled a cleaning during their first visit, a hygienist will perform the following steps:
- Remove tartar and plaque buildup
- Smooth your teeth with a polishing tool and paste
- Scrub with a gritty toothpaste
- Floss thoroughly
- Rinse your mouth and apply a fluoride solution
These cleaning steps help to prevent oral disease and plaque buildup, saving you money on future treatments. Our office offers standard cleanings and additional services like professional whitening. Talk to your dentist about in-office whitening if your teeth are not as bright as you would like. Professional whitening involves applying a gel to your enamel, and we may also use a laser with the whitener. This treatment offers fast results, allowing you to enjoy a brighter smile immediately after your appointment.
Offering Emergency Services
If you scheduled your first dental visit due to an emergency, our team will quickly treat your oral health concerns. Dental emergencies include chipped or broken teeth, chronic pain, constant bleeding, and abscesses. We treat these issues as quickly as possible to reduce discomfort and prevent the problem from worsening. Solutions to dental emergencies may involve extractions, fillings, root canals, and prescription medications. Our patients’ comfort is our top priority, so we offer prompt care to provide relief.
Schedule an Appointment With Our Dentist Today
The team at Rocky Ridge Dental offers various dental services to treat oral health issues and promote good oral hygiene. We provide preventative and cosmetic dentistry services like treating periodontal disease, inserting crowns and bridges, and making custom mouthguards. Our team will explain the steps involved in your upcoming appointments to help you set expectations and feel more prepared. Schedule an appointment online or call us today for more information about our services.
